The Guardian view on jobs and training: boosting young people’s chances should be a national mission | Editorial

Colleges and placements can help the 1 million 16- to 24-year-olds who aren’t earning or learning. But what they need most is work

For a few days at least, political attention is focused on young people aged 16-24 who are not in education, employment or training (known as Neets). A report from the commission led by Alan Milburn, a former health secretary, shines a bright light on a group that needs it. The document concentrates on analysis, with recommendations due in the autumn. Describing problems is generally easier than solving them.

The latest figures record more than 1 million Neets – one in eight of their age group; 60% are economically inactive, meaning that they are not looking for work. The report warns that there will soon be more unless action is taken. It points out that this issue is too often approached from the wrong direction. Political attacks on welfare spending and mean-spirited criticisms of “kids these days” are a distraction from the facts about unemployment, rising ill health and inadequate training. The UK’s poor track record compared with other countries proves that this is a policy failure.